Speechmaker's opening - Crossword Clue

a humorous anecdote or remark intended to provoke laughter; "he told a very funny joke"; "he knows a million gags"; "thanks for the laugh"; "he laughed unpleasantly at his own jest"; "even a schoolboy's jape is supposed to have some ascertainable point"

tell a joke; speak humorously; "He often jokes even when he appears serious"

a ludicrous or grotesque act done for fun and amusement

activity characterized by good humor

a triviality not to be taken seriously; "I regarded his campaign for mayor as a joke"